Chinatown

Name: Chinatown
Released: 1974-06-20T00:00:00-04:00

R 1974 Crime, Drama, Mystery, Thriller · 2h 10m

Private eye Jake Gittes lives off of the murky moral climate of sunbaked, pre-World War II Southern California. Hired by a beautiful socialite to investigate her husband's extra-marital affair, Gittes is swept into a maelstrom of double dealings and deadly deceits, uncovering a web of personal and political scandals that come crashing together.

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About Chinatown

In the simmering heat of pre-World War II Los Angeles, private investigator Jake Gittes finds himself entangled in a web of deceit far more complex than a simple marital dispute. Hired by a woman he believes to be Evelyn Mulwray to investigate her husband's alleged affair, Gittes soon discovers he's been used as a pawn in a much larger game. As he digs deeper, Gittes uncovers a network of corruption involving land, water, and powerful figures who will stop at nothing to protect their interests. Double-crosses, hidden identities, and escalating violence force Gittes to confront the dark heart of the city and the devastating secrets that lie beneath its glamorous facade.

Movie Trailer

Chinatown Trailer

Cast and Characters

Directed by Roman Polanski, Chinatown boasts a stellar cast. Jack Nicholson delivers a career-defining performance as Jake Gittes, the cynical but determined private eye. Faye Dunaway portrays Evelyn Mulwray, a mysterious and alluring woman with secrets of her own. John Huston embodies Noah Cross, a powerful and menacing figure whose influence permeates every corner of Los Angeles. Perry Lopez plays Lieutenant Escobar, a police officer caught between his duty and the city's powerful elite. John Hillerman appears as Russ Yelburton, Gittes's business partner. Diane Ladd has a brief but memorable role as Ida Sessions.

What people like about Chinatown

Critics and audiences alike have lauded Chinatown for its intricate plot, outstanding performances, and masterful direction. Many praise the film's ability to create a palpable sense of atmosphere and suspense, drawing viewers into its dark and unsettling world. The chemistry between Nicholson and Dunaway is often highlighted, as is Huston's chilling portrayal of Noah Cross. The film's ambiguous ending and its exploration of complex moral themes have also been widely praised, solidifying its status as a cinematic masterpiece.

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Movie Score

79%

Released

June 20, 1974

Director

Roman Polanski

Film Series

The Jake Gittes Movies

Cast

Jack Nicholson, Faye Dunaway, John Huston, Perry Lopez, John Hillerman, Diane Ladd

Genre

Crime, Drama, Mystery, Thriller

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